Heavy Metal Contamination in Omo River, Ethiopia: Environmental and Human Health Risks

A concerning level of heavy metal contamination has been identified in the Lower Omo River, Ethiopia, posing significant environmental and human health risks. The study found that river water samples exhibited high levels of iron (Fe), manganese (Mn), chromium (Cr), lead (Pb), copper (Cu), zinc (Zn), cobalt (Co), and nickel (Ni), with Fe being the most prevalent. The Hazard Quotient (HQ) values for children and adults indicated potential health risks, particularly from Cr, Pb, and Mn through ingestion and dermal exposure. The Cancer Risk (CR) values further classified the river water as a very high environmental risk. Sediment analysis also revealed elevated levels of Fe, Cr, Cu, and Pb, highlighting the severity of contamination in this UNESCO World Heritage Site. This research underscores the urgent need for mitigation strategies to protect both ecosystems and human health in the region.

Abiy Andemo, K., Tilahun, Y. G., Sorsa, S. S., & Seifu, B. Y. (2024). Heavy Metal Contamination in Omo River, Ethiopia: Environmental and Human Health Risks. Environmental Health Insights, 18. https://doi.org/10.1177/11786302241290068